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Should I Hire a Lawyer After a Minor Car Accident?

Should I Hire a Lawyer After a Minor Car Accident?

Shapiro Law Team July 18, 2022 Car Accidents

While you may not think a minor car accident warrants legal representation, you’ll benefit from holding the responsible driver accountable. Some people prefer to handle a minor car accident case independently, but hiring an attorney increases the likelihood of receiving substantial compensation.

Learn more about what you can do to secure compensation after a minor car accident in the information below.

What Is a Minor Car Accident?

Unfortunately, there’s no universal definition of a minor car accident. Consequently, people form their opinions (and disagree) on the parameters of a major and minor car accident. However, in most cases, accidents qualify as minor if the following criteria are met:

  • Vehicular damages are small enough that the car can be driven safely away from the scene.
  • Any injuries sustained don’t require emergency or long-term medical care.

Depending on how the crash happened, hiring a lawyer may be in your best interest. Sideswipes, fender benders, and other minor car accidents may cause injuries that turn into major problems later. The right litigators will be your advocate and secure compensation for damages and possible injuries—even for a minor accident.

Why You May Need a Car Accident Lawyer

Review the reasons below to learn why you may need a car accident lawyer for your minor car collision:

  • Disputes over who is at fault
  • Injuries that require long-term treatment
  • Determining fair compensation
  • Handling the claim alone becomes too stressful

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Possible Injuries You May Have Suffered

Motor vehicle-related injuries send more than 2.3 million people to the emergency room*.

Just because you don’t immediately feel pain doesn’t mean you’re not hurt. You may have an adrenaline rush after a minor car accident, so you should always see a doctor. It may take days or weeks to know the extent of your injuries.

Common Soft Tissue Injuries

Low-speed accidents can generate a lot of force on impact, causing soft tissue damage to muscles, tendons, and ligaments. These types of juries include:

  • Neck swelling and stiffness
  • Neck mobility stiffness/pain
  • Muscle spasms
  • Shoulder pain

Common Head Injuries

Head injuries should always be taken seriously. Bumping your head may seem insignificant, but you could have a concussion. Review other common head injuries:

  • Headache
  • Memory loss
  • Confusion
  • Nausea
  • Ringing ears
  • Vomiting
  • Blurry vision

Economic and Noneconomic Damages

If another driver caused your injuries or vehicle damage in a minor car accident, you might be entitled to the following economic damages:

  • Property damage
  • Loss of earning capacity
  • Medical bills
  • Lost wages

Possible noneconomic damages include the following:

  • Pain and suffering
  • Mental anguish

Remember that each state has its statute of limitations to file a case. If that time expires, you might miss out on pursuing compensation for your losses and injuries.

Benefits of Getting Legal Help With a Minor Accident

You may not know the benefits of hiring a lawyer after being in an auto collision. The truth is, a lawyer does all the work while you focus on recovery.

Communicates With Insurance Agents

If an insurance agent contacts you after an auto crash, you may immediately accept a settlement. However, this may not be the best option for you. An attorney’s job is to negotiate a fair settlement on your behalf and protect you from ruthless, self-serving insurance agents.

Proves the Cause of the Incident

You may not have the time or energy to prove you weren’t at fault for the minor car accident. Fortunately, proving negligence in a legal battle is a personal injury lawyer’s forte. Your representation will speak with witnesses, review the police report, and examine traffic cameras to prove the other driver was in the wrong.

This includes but is not limited to the following:

  • Consuming drugs or alcohol before operating a vehicle.
  • Driving while using a mobile device.
  • Driving while fatigued or exhausted.
  • Speeding or driving recklessly.

Calculate the Value of Your Claim

If you’re eligible for compensation, an attorney will review all damages and calculate the value of your case:

  • Medical costs
  • Lost wages
  • Vehicle repairs

Resolve Your Car Accident Case With the Shapiro Law Team

At Shapiro Law Team, our goal is to secure justice for any negligence. No matter how minor your accident, you deserve full compensation for your injuries and other damages. If you suffered injuries or property damage in a minor car accident, speak to a member of our team. Our process is simple and stress-free. When you’re ready to fight for justice, the Shapiro Law Team is here to help. Get your free case evaluation now!

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